Kendal residents can now apply for free adult learning courses designed to improve employment prospects, support wellbeing, develop hobbies and help people gain qualifications during the 2026-27 academic year.
Applications have opened for Cumbria Adult Learning’s new programme. Courses are available through the service’s Kendal centre and at locations elsewhere across Cumbria, giving residents the opportunity to compare subjects, course levels and venues before applying.
Courses include English, maths and digital skills
The qualification programme includes English, maths, English for speakers of other languages, digital skills, employability, health and wellbeing and the greener curriculum. Courses range from Entry Level through to Levels 1 and 2.
No previous qualifications are needed to begin. The programme is intended for people starting a subject, returning to education or building on experience they already have.
There are also non-qualification classes covering subjects such as arts and crafts, languages, health and wellbeing and other interests. Cumbria Adult Learning describes these classes as a supportive way to build skills, improve confidence and try new experiences in the local community.
All skills courses are free. Other classes may be subsidised under relevant terms and conditions, meaning they could be available at a reduced cost or at no cost to learners.
Printed brochures and online information
The full curriculum is available on the Cumbria Adult Learning website, which will also publish an online version of the programme. Printed brochures are due to be distributed at the service’s six main centres, including Kendal, as well as major libraries and key partner organisations.
Residents can use the programme to compare available subjects, levels and locations before submitting an application.
Free training also available for Cumbrian businesses
Employers across Cumbria can access the new Skills Bridge programme. It provides free, bespoke training for employed staff and people looking for work, with the aim of supporting workforce excellence across the county.
Further information about Skills Bridge, the full course programme and local centres is available through the Cumbria Adult Learning website.
Service reports strong learner satisfaction
Cumbria Adult Learning is rated “Good” overall by Ofsted, while learner personal development is one of two areas graded “Outstanding”. Westmorland and Furness Council says 98% of learners are satisfied and 97% say their courses met expectations.
Learners receive help and guidance from staff throughout their course. One recent learner said: My tutor was a really great teacher. I felt fully supported throughout the course. Thank you.
Councillor Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said more than 6,000 people choose to learn with the service each year. She said the courses have helped learners develop skills, explore hobbies, gain qualifications, advance careers, find jobs, build confidence and support their wellbeing.
Emma Hamer, Cumberland Council’s Assistant Director for Education, SEND and Inclusion, said there were “hundreds of classes” led by experienced tutors and encouraged people considering a new subject to contact the service.
Cumbria Adult Learning is a hosted service provided by Westmorland and Furness Council for the whole of Cumbria. Kendal is one of its six main centres.